Searching for places to dispose of old metal cabinets? Getting rid of large metal objects like cabinets can be a challenging task if you don’t know where to bring them. Fortunately, there are several responsible and eco-friendly ways to recycle or donate your used metal cabinets.

Introduction

Metal cabinets may be commonplace in garages, basements, sheds and workshops. While extremely sturdy and long-lasting, there comes a time when metal storage cabinets have outlived their usefulness in your home. Maybe the cabinet is outdated, rusty, dented or no longer needed. Whatever the reason, finding an appropriate place to dump old metal cabinets is important.

Simply tossing metal cabinets in the regular trash or abandoning them on the curbside is irresponsible and poses safety risks. These disposal methods also contribute to the growing problem of overflowing landfills. The good news is that there are better places to bring old metal cabinets so that the materials can be reused or repurposed.

This guide will explore the main options for properly and responsibly getting rid of old metal cabinets, including:

Donating to reuse stores like Habitat for Humanity
Selling or giving away on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
Recycling with scrap metal recycling centers
Hiring junk removal services to haul away
Renting a dumpster for large disposals

Properly disposing of metal cabinets keeps the materials in circulation and out of landfills. Read on to learn the best places and practices for dumping old metal cabinets in an eco-friendly way.

Donate to Reuse Stores

One of the best ways to get rid of old metal cabinets is donating them to reuse stores and charity organizations. Many non-profits like Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept donated cabinets in good, usable condition.

The ReStore sells reused and surplus building materials, appliances and cabinets at a discounted price. Sales proceeds help fund Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build affordable homes for families in need.

Before dropping off metal cabinets:

Call ahead to make sure they accept used cabinets and arrange a dropoff time.
Clean out the cabinets and remove any contents, shelves or hardware.
Ensure the cabinets are sturdy and all parts are included.
Double check that doors open properly and any locks work.

If the cabinets are high quality and do not require major repairs, the ReStore will likely accept them as a donation. This keeps the cabinets in circulation for another household to utilize.

The ReStore may even arrange pickup of the metal cabinets from your home depending on your location. This convenient service prevents the hassle of renting a truck to transport bulky cabinets.

Donating reusable cabinets is a feel-good way to declutter while benefitting a charitable cause. Be sure to get a receipt from the organization for tax deduction purposes.

Sell or Give Away on Facebook or Craigslist

Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are popular options for selling or giving away quality used items for free. These platforms allow you to easily list metal cabinets to find them a new home.

Listing cabinets on Facebook or Craigslist is best for items in good shape that another household or business can reuse. Make sure to highlight any appealing features in your listing like:

Sturdy steel or aluminum construction
Adjustable shelves and drawers
Locking mechanisms for security
Wheels for mobility
Good condition without rust or dents

In the listing be sure to include important details like the dimensions, color, type of metal and any flaws. Post several clear photos from multiple angles so interested parties can get a good look at the cabinets.

You can list metal cabinets for a competitive price based on their size, quality and style. Or advertise them as free to anyone willing to haul them away – just be prepared for lots of responses if offering something for free.

Safely meet potential buyers in a public place. Many police stations have “safe transaction” locations specifically for exchanging online purchases.

Selling or giving away metal cabinets keeps them out of the waste stream and saves the buyer money. Just be sure to coordinate pickup or delivery expectations with the recipient.

Recycle at Scrap Metal Centers

For old, worn out and broken metal cabinets that cannot be reused, scrap metal recycling is the way to go. Scrap metal can be melted down and repurposed into new metal products.

Search for scrap metal recycling centers and salvage yards in your area. Call or visit their website to ask about their metal acceptance policies. Most facilities accept a wide range of scrap metal, including:

Appliances
Steel and aluminum cabinets
Auto parts
Shelving
Furniture and more

Scrap facilities may or may not accept whole cabinets. For full cabinets, you’ll likely need to remove the wood shelving and trim to extract just the metal shell for recycling.

Some key steps for recycling metal cabinets at a scrap yard:

Clean out any contents or materials from the cabinets
Break down cabinets into manageable components if required
Load metal pieces securely in your vehicle
Bring gloves and tools to unload metals at the facility
Check in at the scale house to weigh your load
Unload at the designated scrapyard area
Collect your receipt from the scale house attendant

Steel typically provides more value per pound than other metals. Be sure to ask the metal recycling center for current rates so you know what to expect.

Selling the metal can help offset the cost of purchasing new cabinets. If the salvage value is minimal, then recycling the metal is still better than sending cabinets to the dump.

Hire Junk Removal Services

If you have several old metal cabinets to get rid of, hiring junk removal professionals can save you time and hassle. Junk hauling services will safely remove and dispose of any unwanted items.

Look for insured junk removal companies that recycle as much as possible. Be sure to ask:

What types of metals they accept
If they donate or recycle usable cabinets
How they dispose of any non-recyclable residue
If they provide free estimates
What their hourly rates and minimum fees are

When hiring a junk removal service:

Have the cabinets emptied out and ready for removal
Point out any issues like rust or missing handles
Ask for a receipt stating cabinets were recycled properly
Tip workers who provide excellent service

Professional junk haulers have the tools and experience to efficiently dismantle cabinets and load the metal for recycling or disposal. This saves your time and energy trying to dismantle cabinets on your own.

Review estimates from a few junk removal services to find a competitively priced option near you. Removing metal cabinets yourself can be dangerous and time consuming, so the cost of professional junk hauling is often justifiable.

Rent a Dumpster for Large Disposals

For clearing out multiple old metal cabinets, renting a roll-off dumpster bin can simplify disposal. Dumpster rental companies deliver a container to your home which you can fill up with bulky refuse over several days.

Renting a dumpster is optimal when:

You have lots of large junk to remove
Transportation is difficult without a truck
Regular garbage pickup cannot handle the load
You want to expedite completion of a garage or basement purge

Look for dumpster rental companies that allow metal within their dumpsters. Compare rates on container sizes – a 10 to 30 yard dumpster is sufficient for most home cabinet removals.

When renting a dumpster:

Declutter cabinets and remove contents before dumping
Stack cabinets neatly and compactly in the container
Load the heaviest items first for optimal weight distribution
Check that no metal is sticking over the sides
Clean up any stray debris that misses the dumpster

The disposal company will haul away the full dumpster when you are done loading it. Be sure to follow loading guidelines so that no hazardous or banned materials contaminate the contents.

Renting a dumpster provides convenience, but can cost $300 or more depending on the size and duration of the rental. Weigh whether the time savings are worth the dumpster rental expense for your cabinet removal job.

Tips for Safe Handling of Metal Cabinets

When getting ready to move or dispose of old metal cabinets, safety should be top priority:

Wear gloves when handling sharp metal edges
Get help moving extra heavy cabinets
Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury
Be cautious of cabinet doors unexpectedly swinging open or closed
Remove glass before dumping to prevent breakage
Check for hazardous substances before transporting
Ensure adequate ventilation if cutting metal indoors
Protect flooring with blankets or boards when dragging cabinets

Disassembling metal cabinets may require power tools like reciprocating saws, circular saws, angle grinders or cordless drill. Use extreme caution and follow manufactures safety guidelines when operating power equipment.

Letting cabinets sit outside unattended can encourage theft or unauthorized dumping. Keep items secured until final drop off and do not leave at the curbside for long periods.

Being attentive to safety minimizes the risks of personal harm or property damage when handling old metal cabinets. Take things slowly and get assistance if needed.

Answering Common Questions About Cabinet Disposal

Getting rid of old metal cabinets often brings up lots of questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Can I put metal cabinets in my curbside bulk trash pickup?

Rules vary by municipality, but many bulk trash services will not accept metal cabinets, appliances or loose metal. The best options are donation, selling online or taking cabinets to a metal recycling center. Avoid leaving discarded metal on the curb unless explicitly permitted.

How much space will cabinets take up in a rental dumpster?

A standard two-door base cabinet takes up roughly 15-20 cubic feet. A two-door wall cabinet consumes 10-15 cubic feet. Measure your cabinets to estimate space needed, allowing some wiggle room. Inform the dumpster company if you are disposing of multiple large metal cabinets so they provide a properly sized container.

Is there a market for vintage or antique metal cabinets?

Yes, vintage metal cabinets can sell for a premium, especially mid-century modern styles. Antique cabinets from the early 1900s or earlier also appeal to collectors. Research your cabinet’s brand, era, condition and style to gauge potential value before scrapping or ditching older metal cabinets.

What precautions should I take when removing built-in cabinets?

Take care not to damage walls or flooring when removing old built-in cabinets. Inspect for screws or fasteners behind or underneath the cabinet. Removing adjacent countertops or connected plumbing may be required prior to built-in cabinet removal. Go slowly and get help wiggling out firmly secured cabinets.

Can the dump charge by weight rather than load size?

Some dumps and salvage yards charge by the pound rather than vehicle load or container size. Weighing cabinets on an industrial scale gives the most accurate pricing. Removal of non-metal components like wood shelving will lighten the load. Call your local facilities to ask about weight-based pricing.

Conclusion

Metal cabinets are bulky items that require special planning to remove and dispose of properly. With so many great reuse and recycling options now available, there is no need to abandon old cabinets or send them to the landfill.

Doing right by the environment and safely getting rid of unwanted metal objects is important. Following these guidelines will help you donate, sell or recycle obsolete metal cabinets in your home.

With some sweat equity and logistical planning, those dusty old cabinets in your garage can find renewed life. And you gain space for storing items better suited to your current needs. Happy unloading those unloved metal cabinets!

How to Prepare Metal Cabinets for Donation, Disposal or Recycling

Before dropping off, selling or recycling old metal cabinets, take the appropriate steps to clean and prepare the cabinets for their next destination. Here are useful tips for prepping metal cabinets prior to removal:

Completely Empty Cabinets

Remove all contents and debris
Take out any shelving, drawers or hardware
Check all pockets or cubbies for small items
Vacuum dust and cobwebs from interior
Wipe down inside surfaces with all-purpose cleaner

Make sure cabinets are completely clear of all personal contents before passing them along. Others should not have to clean out your belongings from donated or discarded cabinets.

Check Condition of Doors, Drawers and Shelves

Test doors and make sure they open and close properly
Lubricate sticky hinges or tight drawers
Ensure all cabinet parts are present
Remove or repair broken shelves or missing handles
Sand down any rough edges or splinters

Addressing minor repairs will make cabinets more appealing for donation or sale. At minimum, cabinets should be structurally intact.

Remove Attached Countertops

Use pry bar and hammer to carefully pop off countertop
Cut any caulk or sealant between cabinet and counter
Patch walls or fill holes where removed
Extract any screws, nails or bolts
Repair/replace sections of damaged countertop

Countertops are bulky and often cannot be salvaged. Removing them makes cabinets lighter and easier to handle.

Take Off Cabinet Doors

Label doors so you can reattach later if needed
Use screwdriver to detach door hinges
Stack doors neatly to prevent damage
Tie handles together to keep paired doors together

Removing doors reduces weight and makes tall cabinets fit through doorways. Just be sure to keep all parts organized.

Remove Shelving and Roll-Out Trays

Unscrew shelf clips and slide shelves out
Detach rails and roll-out trays
Discard any broken or damaged parts
Stack shelves vertically against wall if saving

Without shelving, the cabinet’s metal shell can be recycled alone. Keep shelves if still usable.

Take Down Wall Cabinets

Take out nearby drawers first for easier access
Support cabinet weight as loosening fasteners
Remove any filler panels covering wall first
Unscrew from studs or wall cleats
Use pry bar to loosen if tightly stuck

Have helpers assist with this tricky step. Take care not to split cabinet sides or damage walls during removal.

Break Down Cabinet Frame

Knock out pegboard backing or thin paneling
Remove center stile if a double-door design
Unscrew corner gussets or braces
Separate sections with reciprocating saw
Cut away any non-metal additions

Breaking down cabinets into their core steel makes recycling easier. But keep intact if donating.

Prepping metal cabinets before getting rid of them takes some elbow grease. But your effort helps ensure cabinets get reused rather than trashed.

How to Measure Metal Cabinets for Listing Online

When selling or giving away metal cabinets online via Marketplace or Craigslist, accurately documenting the cabinet sizes is crucial. Buyers need measurements to assess if cabinets will fit their space.

Follow these steps to measure metal cabinets:

Gather Measuring Tools

Tape measure
Ruler
Pencil
Paper or notebook
Calculator

Use a sturdy metal tape measure for best results. A ruler can help measure narrow gaps.

Measure Cabinet Height

Open cabinet doors and drawers fully
Place tape measure against side edge
Note height from floor to very top of cabinet
Include even small fractions of inches

Repeat height measurement on opposite cabinet side to ensure consistency.

Measure Cabinet Width

Open doors fully outward
Measure across entire width including doors
Take width from outermost door edge to opposite side
For double-door cabinets, measure each door section

Make note if doors extend wider than the cabinet body.

Measure Cabinet Depth

Measure from very back of cabinet to inside edge of door
For shallow cabinets, depth is typically 12-14 inches
Standard depths range around 23-26 inches

Cabinet depth impacts how far handles and doors protrude when closed.

Measure Additional Features

Shelf and drawer heights
Depth of roll out trays
Door opening width
Distance between shelves/drawers

These details help buyers visualize the interior storage space.

Photograph Cabinet Interior

Take pictures with drawers and doors open
Include a tape measure in photos
Show closeups of cabinet labels or markings

Photos give buyers better context than measurements alone.

Calculate Total Cubic Feet

Height x Width x Depth = cubic feet
Round to one decimal place
Repeat for each cabinet section

Total cubic footage helps convey cabinet size when listed online.

Accurately measuring metal cabinets takes a bit of time upfront. But it ensures buyers know what they are getting and prevents returns or complaints about undisclosed damage or size discrepancies. List measurements in descriptions honestly and double check your math. This creates a smooth buying experience for all parties.

How to Transport Metal Cabinets for Disposal or Donation

Transporting bulky metal cabinets to a new destination requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some tips for safely and efficiently moving discarded metal cabinets:

Protect Floors and Walls

Place cardboard or blankets along the transportation route
Clear path of any breakables or obstructions
Pad corners with towels to prevent wall damage

Preventing scratches, gouges or holes when moving cabinets saves cleanup work.

Detach Doors

Remove cabinet doors and shelves
Label parts so you can reattach later
Pad doors and wrap hardware to prevent scratches

Door removal allows cabinets to fit through narrow spaces.

Recruit Help

Get at least two able-bodied helpers
Agree on coordination and lifting signals beforehand
Assign person to steady and guide the cabinet

Having one person lift each corner prevents strain and allows visibility.

Use Moving Straps

Thread straps underneath and over cabinet top
Adjust straps so weight is evenly distributed
Loop ends so grips won’t slide off

Moving straps provide secure handholds when lifting bulky cabinets.

Lift Properly

Bend knees and keep back straight
Allow legs to power the lift
Pivot to change direction; avoid twisting
Take breaks to set cabinets down if needed

Where Can I Dump Old Metal Cabinets?